The Knights flew straight from East London to the Lowveld for the key game, which will have a big beating on their season’s objectives.

The Knights have already booked their place in the final, but a victory away from home this week would guarantee top spot on the log and all but seal promotion – a massive incentive heading into the last round.

There is also plenty at stake elsewhere, with the third-placed Garden Route Badgers hosting the second-placed Eastern Stormers in Oudtshoorn. 

JP Triegaardt. Photo: Cricinfo

That clash in the Little Karoo looms as a key battle, with both teams chasing promotion and silverware. From a Knights’ point of view, an ideal outcome would be a draw in Oudtshoorn.

Confidence in the Knights’ camp is high following their impressive 88-run victory over the Eastern Cape Iinyathi. 

However, head coach JP Triegaardt has warned that his side will be taking nothing for granted against a Rhinos team that is far more competitive than their current log position suggests.

“It was a tough four days, exactly as you’d expect,” said Triegaardt.

“The Iinyathi are a really good team who understand their game, and we saw that in the T20s as well.

“It was proper cricket, with good pressure moments from both sides. Luckily, we kept our calm, stuck to our processes, and the outcome took care of itself.”

Malusi Siboto. Photo: Morgan Piek

With one round remaining before next week’s final, there are clear objectives for the Knights. 

First and foremost, a win will secure top spot, maximum promotion points, and confirm the Free Staters’ return to Division 1 next season. Securing a home final – and a shot at a second piece of silverware this season – is also firmly in their sights.

Triegaardt added that while qualification for the final is already in the bag, the Knights are determined to make sure that showdown is played in Bloemfontein.

Joe van Dyk. Photo: Morgan Piek

“If you look at the log, we’ve already secured a final, but going to Mpumalanga is about earning a home final,” he said.

“They might be second last, but we’ll never take any team lightly. We need to stay humble, prepare properly, assess the conditions, and select the best possible side.

“We’re heading there now and spending three days preparing before the game.”

Play at Uplands College gets underway at 10:00 on Thursday morning.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs